Partner with NHLA to support the hardwood industry, increase brand visibility, and offer value to members. Explore current partners and contact us today. Corporate Partnerships Partner with NHLA to shape the future of hardwood. The NHLA Corporate Partnership Program connects leading companies with the hardwood industry’s most engaged decision-makers — from sawmills and manufacturers to global exporters and industry suppliers. As a partner, your brand gains year-round exposure, trusted alignment with the NHLA name, and direct access to the businesses shaping the future of hardwoods. Why Become a Corporate Partner? As a corporate partner, you'll receive year-round brand visibility across our most influential platforms, including our website, Hardwood Matters magazine, and our annual Convention. Gain exclusive opportunities to drive business with member discounts and connect directly with NHLA's engaged network of industry professionals. It's a smart way to build brand recognition and grow alongside the hardwood community. Program Benefits Featured Recognition at the NHLA Convention Advertising in NHLA Publications and Newsletters Opportunities for Sponsored Content Priority Exhibit Space & Brand Placement Direct Engagement with NHLA Members & Leadership Exclusive Member Deals From Our Corporate Partners ADP Learn More RSVP AtoB Learn More RSVP Bass Pro Shops Learn More RSVP Dell Technologies Learn More RSVP FedEx Learn More RSVP Greenlane Learn More RSVP Lenovo Learn More RSVP Medical & Voluntary Benefits Learn More RSVP Paychex Learn More RSVP Ryan & Jacobs Learn More RSVP Solo Stove Learn More RSVP Let's Build Something Together Reach the decision-makers who power the hardwood supply chain. NHLA Corporate Partnerships offer unmatched visibility, influence, and access across the industry — from the forest to the final product. Contact our team to explore tailored partnership opportunities that meet your goals. Contact Us

Meet the dedicated professionals and leaders of the NHLA, including our staff, national inspectors, board members, and past chairmen. NHLA Staff & Board Meet the people who lead, support, and represent NHLA across the hardwood industry. From our headquarters team in Memphis to inspectors across the country and our elected Board of Managers, NHLA’s leadership is comprised of passionate professionals dedicated to advancing the hardwood lumber industry. Dallin Brooks NHLA Executive Director Dallin Brooks serves as Executive Director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), bringing extensive experience in hardwood and treated wood markets. Before joining NHLA, he spent ten years as Executive Director of the Western Wood Preservers Institute (WWPI), where he transformed the organization from a reactive industry group into a proactive leader in content, standards, and quality control. His work included developing smartphone apps for industry guides, maintaining inspection programs, advancing research on quality metrics, and successfully advocating for legislation affecting treated wood. Since joining NHLA, Dallin has focused on strengthening the association’s role in market development, product innovation, and member services. He has led initiatives to expand educational offerings, enhance grading standards, and promote hardwood sustainability and quality on a global scale. He also works closely with policymakers to advocate for the industry on trade, workforce, and regulatory issues. Dallin holds a BSc in Wood Products Processing and an MSc in Forest and Society from the University of British Columbia. He also has experience introducing thermally modified wood from Finland to North America for niche hardwood markets. Growing up in the forests of British Columbia, he brings a lifelong connection to the woods. (901) 377-1082 Email Dallin NHLA Staff John Hester Chief Development Officer (901) 399-7558 Email John Dana Spessert NHLA Chief Inspector (901) 399-7551 Email Dana Natalie Thelen Chief Marketing Officer (971) 279-0833 Email Natalie Sailesh Adhikari Director of Research and Development (901) 399-7552 Email Sailesh Melissa Ellis Creative Director (901) 399-7553 Email Melissa Desiree Freeman Chief Financial Officer & Controller (901) 399-7591 Email Desiree Brennah Hutchison Hardwood Industry Liaison and Content Director (901) 399-7580 Email Brennah Ashley Johnson Director of Strategic Operations (901) 399-7559 Email Ashley Roman Matyushchenko Associate ITS Dean & National Inspector (901) 399-7569 Email Roman Kathryn Mitchell Office Assistant (901) 399-7557 Email Kathryn Darci Shannon Member Services Advisor (901) 399-7567 Email Darci Rachel Spiers Blossman Digital Marketing Consultant (901) 399-7554 Email Rachel Ashley Tandy Convention & Events Director (901) 377-1818 Email Ashley NHLA Board of Directors - Executive Committee Brant Forcey NHA Mission Leader Forcey Lumber Company Chris Rider Finance Chair AHC Hardwood Group Mike Powers Market Impacts Mission Leader Maley & Wertz Lumber, Inc. Stephanie VanDystadt Chairperson of the Board Hull Forest Products Tom Coble Vice Chairperson of the Board Hartzell Hardwoods, Inc. Bucky Pescaglia Past Chairperson of the Board (2024-2026) Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. Vince Catarella Convention Mission Leader Baillie Lumber Co. Bill Courtney Membership & Networking Services Mission Leader Classic American Hardwoods George Swaner Information Services Mission Leader Swaner Hardwoods Company, Inc. Trent Yoder Lumber Services Mission Leader Yoder Lumber Co., Inc. Current NHLA Board Members Chuck Boaz Current Board Member Corley Manufacturing Co. Parker Boles Current Board Member Hermitage Hardwood Lumber Sales, Inc. Guy Dollinger Current Board Member DZD Hardwood Inc. Alex Fischer Current Board Member Liberty Hardwoods Jason Gobel Current Board Member NWH Matt Gutchess Information Services Deputy Mission Leader Gutchess Lumber Co., Inc. Anthony Hammond Current Board Member Roy Anderson Lumber Co. Patti Heintzelman Current Board Member Keiver-Willard Lumber Corp. Sean Herlihy Market Impacts Deputy Mission Leader Holt and Bugbee Company Tyler Kamps Current Board Member Kamps Hardwoods, Inc. Jesse LaSon Current Board Member Rossi Group Chris McQueen Current Board Member Anthony Oak Flooring Clay Miller Current Board Member Aurora Timberland/Alexandria Moulding Chris Norris Current Board Member Hood Distribution Andy Nuffer Membership & Networking Services Deputy Mission Leader RAM Forest Products, Inc. Tim Pleimann Lumber Services Deputy Mission Leader Farrow Lumber Co. Jay Reese Current Board Member Penn-Sylvan International, Inc. Jason Sencaj Convention Deputy Mission Leader Adentra Companies Shane Underwood Current Board Member Granite Valley Forest Products, Inc. Loren Voyer Current Board Member Kennebec Lumber Co. Scott Wesberry NHA Deputy Mission Leader Fred Netterville Lumber Co. Past NHLA Chairmen Jon Syre 2022 - 2024 Cascade Hardwood Jeff Wirkkala 2020 - 2022 Hardwood Industries, Inc. Darwin Murray 2018 - 2020 McClain Forest Products Brent Stief 2016 - 2018 Huron Forest Products, Inc. Pem Jenkins 2014 - 2016 Turn Bull Lumber Co. Scott Heidler 2012 - 2014 Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co. Dave Redmon 2010 - 2012 Highland Hardwood Sales, Inc. Ted Rossi 2008 - 2010 Rossi Group Jim Howard 2006 - 2008 Atlanta Hardwood, Inc.

The National Hardwood Academy (NHA) offers hands-on hardwood training programs in lumber grading, kiln drying, and more. Learn. Train. Launch your career. The Standard in Hardwood Education Since 1948 Start local. Go global. Build a future rooted in hardwood. Launch a career in the thriving hardwood lumber industry with hands-on training from the National Hardwood Academy. Based in Memphis, TN — and open to students worldwide — our programs prepare you for high-demand roles in lumber grading, kiln drying, production, mill management, sales, and much more. Whether you’re starting fresh, changing careers, or advancing in your current job, NHA offers flexible learning paths, real-world experience, and direct access to job opportunities across North America. Core Programs Inspector Training School Our flagship program — held at the National Hardwood Academy in Memphis, TN — offers immersive, full-time training in hardwood lumber grading. Learn More RSVP Hybrid Inspector Training Combining on-campus sessions with a self-paced online module, the hybrid program is ideal for students balancing work, travel, or family commitments. Learn More RSVP Short Courses Designed for busy professionals, these 1–3 day workshops deliver targeted, high-demand training to enhance individual expertise and team performance. Learn More RSVP Career Opportunities Graduates of the National Hardwood Academy and Inspector Training School join a global network of professionals spanning every corner of the hardwood supply chain. Lasting Legacy : Built on leadership, skill, and connection. Global Community : United by shared training and professional standards. Industry Commitment : Dedicated to advancing the hardwood sector. Explore Career Opprtunities Student Life Student life at the National Hardwood Academy is built on camaraderie, hands-on learning, and unwavering faculty support. You'll train alongside classmates who quickly become like family, guided by instructors who are deeply invested in your growth and success — both in the classroom and beyond. Explore Student Life Ready to Take the First Step? Applying to NHA is a straightforward process designed to get you on the path to a rewarding career in the hardwood industry, and scholarships are available on a need basis. Review our admissions information then complete the online application form and submit your supporting documents. Whether you're just entering the workforce or making a career change, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Apply Now

Watch videos from NHLA and across the hardwood community—education, events, industry profiles, and more. Submit your own video to be featured. Video Resources Explore the sights and sounds from the hardwood industry. Discover a growing collection of videos showcasing NHLA training programs, industry insights, behind-the-scenes hardwood operations, and inspiring member success stories. Stay informed and inspired with authentic content from the heart of the hardwood lumber industry. Video Library #NHLA2025 Ed Session: Reading the Market - What Today's Trends Mean for the Hardwood Industry 1:06:45 • 1 year ago RSVP Can American Hardwoods Solve the Climate Crisis? ... YES! 5:06 • 1 year ago RSVP Clearcutting, Harvesting, and Deforestation: What's the Difference 5:13 • 1 year ago RSVP They Said It Couldn’t Be Done… But Hardwoods Proved Them Wrong! 5:16 • 1 year ago RSVP How Trees Save the World: Carbon Sequestration Explained 5:06 • 2 years ago RSVP Trees: The Ultimate Renewable Resource 5:34 • 2 years ago RSVP Embracing Biophilic Design 5:47 • 2 years ago RSVP Choose Hardwoods 2:26 • 2 years ago RSVP An explanation of the American hardwood lumber grades by NHLA 17:39 • 2 years ago RSVP Bringing Nature Indoors 3:07 • 3 years ago RSVP Real American Hardwood - From CASCADE It's Every Bundle 0:22 • 3 years ago RSVP From Plank to Product | Path Design 1:26 • 3 years ago RSVP First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Share Your Videos NHLA members and partners are invited to share their stories. Whether it’s a facility tour, training session, project highlight, or community initiative, your video can help educate and connect the hardwood industry community. Submit a Video

Stay connected to the hardwood industry year-round. View upcoming trade shows, conferences, and events on NHLA’s industry events calendar. Industry Events Your year-round guide to hardwood industry engagement. From international trade shows to regional meetups, the National Hardwood Lumber Association actively participates in events that connect, educate, and advance the hardwood industry. Explore our calendar to discover upcoming opportunities to engage with peers and industry leaders. Events that Move the Industry Forward Throughout the year, NHLA staff, members, and partners attend and host pivotal events designed to support professional development, promote North American hardwoods, and strengthen industry connections. Whether exhibiting, presenting, or networking, NHLA is at the heart of the conversation shaping the future of hardwoods. Explore Upcoming Events   Nov 4 - 6, 2026 NAWLA Traders Market Learn More RSVP Jan 20 - 22, 2027 Lake States Lumber Association Winter Meeting Learn More RSVP Jan 22 - 24, 2027 2027 WPA Annual Meeting Learn More RSVP Feb 2 - 2, 2027 IBS + KBIS - Design & Construction Week Learn More RSVP Feb 8 - 10, 2027 IHLA Convention & Expo Learn More RSVP Mar 1 - 3, 2027 NAWLA T-100 Learn More RSVP Mar 2 - 4, 2027 International Biomass Conference & Expo Learn More RSVP Mar 3 - 7, 2027 AHMI Annual Meeting Learn More RSVP Mar 3 - 5, 2027 Woodpack Annual Leadership Conference & Expo Learn More RSVP Mar 16 - 19, 2027 International Mass Timber Conference & Expo Learn More RSVP Mar 17 - 19, 2027 SLMA 2027 Spring Meeting & Expo Learn More RSVP Apr 4 - 8, 2027 123rd AWPA Annual Meeting Learn More RSVP Event Date(s) Location Details NAWLA Traders Market Nov 4 - 6, 2026 Anaheim, CA Learn More Lake States Lumber Association Winter Meeting Jan 20 - 22, 2027 Sheboygan, WI Learn More 2027 WPA Annual Meeting Jan 22 - 24, 2027 Palm Springs, CA Learn More IBS + KBIS - Design & Construction Week Feb 2 - 2, 2027 Las Vegas, NV Learn More IHLA Convention & Expo Feb 8 - 10, 2027 Indianapolis, IN Learn More NAWLA T-100 Mar 1 - 3, 2027 Amelia Island, FL Learn More International Biomass Conference & Expo Mar 2 - 4, 2027 Atlanta, GA Learn More AHMI Annual Meeting Mar 3 - 7, 2027 Bonita Springs, FL Learn More Woodpack Annual Leadership Conference & Expo Mar 3 - 5, 2027 San Antonio, TX Learn More International Mass Timber Conference & Expo Mar 16 - 19, 2027 Portland, OR Learn More SLMA 2027 Spring Meeting & Expo Mar 17 - 19, 2027 Nashville, TN Learn More 123rd AWPA Annual Meeting Apr 4 - 8, 2027 Louisville, KY Learn More Upcoming Industry Events First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last Interested in Hosting a Hardwood Industry Event? NHLA is proud to support the growth of hardwood education and advocacy through collaboration. If you’re organizing an event and want NHLA’s involvement — or if you’re interested in partnering to host future hardwood industry events — our Events Team is ready to work with you. Contact Us

Explore upcoming short courses from the National Hardwood Academy. Enhance your skills in hardwood lumber grading, kiln drying, quality control, and more. Short Courses Fast, affordable training to keep you ahead in the hardwood industry. NHA short courses are tailored for hardwood professionals aiming to build new skills, deepen industry knowledge, or advance their careers. These 1- to 5-day sessions cover essential topics such as grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, and quality control. Ideal for sawyers, kiln operators, supervisors, graders, sales staff, management, and more, these courses are offered at NHLA’s Memphis headquarters and select partner locations nationwide. Focused Training with Immediate Impact. Designed for Professionals : Build new skills, deepen knowledge, and advance your career. Course Topics : Grading fundamentals, kiln drying, yield improvement, quality control, and more. Flexible Options : 1- to 5-day sessions available at NHLA's Memphis headquarters and partner locations nationwide. Ideal for : Sawyers, kiln operators, graders, sales staff, management, and more. View Upcoming Classes Upcoming Short Courses There are currently no upcoming classes. Please check back soon. Load More Let's Find the Right Course for You Not sure which short course best suits your team’s needs? Our knowledgeable staff is ready to help you select the ideal training path to meet your business goals. Contact Us

Boost efficiency and reduce waste with NHLA’s yield analysis and quality control services—customized insights to improve hardwood lumber operations. Yield Analysis & Quality Control Services designed to help you maximize profits and minimize waste. NHLA provides professional on-site yield studies and quality control services to help sawmills and manufacturers make data-driven decisions that improve overall efficiency and profitability. NHLA Yield Analysis Program NHLA’s Yield Analysis Program helps hardwood manufacturers turn more raw material into usable product. Our experts conduct on-site reviews to uncover waste, improve efficiency, and strengthen consistency—then provide actionable insights proven to boost throughput, value, and ROI. Bottom line: we help you maximize every board. Request More Information Areas That Can Be Audited Headsaw Resaw Gangsaw Edger Trimmer Green Yard Dip Tank Dry Kilns Yield Analysis Testimonials  "We participated in the NHLA Yield Analysis Program, and it was exactly what I had hoped for. As a result, we have improved our yields, and that has added to our bottom line! The NHLA National Inspectors still call my managers just to see if they have any questions or concerns. " Mike Powers Executive Vice President Maley & Wertz  Quality Control Inspections In addition to the Yield Analysis Program, NHLA offers customized Quality Control (QC) inspections tailored to your operation. These inspections are designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, minimize waste, and help you maximize profit from every log. QC inspections can cover areas such as: Lumber grading accuracy and consistency Mill flow and production efficiency Equipment setup and optimization Request More Information Let's Optimize Your Organization If you're ready to improve your recovery rate, reduce costly mistakes, and elevate your quality, the NHLA team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a Yield Analysis or discuss your quality control goals. Contact Dana

Explore admissions information for the National Hardwood Academy. Review requirements, process, and contact our team with any questions before applying. Start Here Find the Right Fit at the National Hardwood Academy Getting started with the National Hardwood Academy is simple and hassle-free. Begin by filling out our online application and uploading the required documents. After we review your submission, an admissions advisor will reach out to guide you through the next steps, including information about housing and payment plans. Whether you’re new to the hardwood industry or looking to advance your career, we’re committed to supporting you throughout the entire admissions process. About the National Hardwood Academy North America's Premier Hardwood Education Institution The National Hardwood Academy (NHA), operated by the NHLA, has been training hardwood industry professionals since 1948. Programs are taught by NHLA's expert inspectors, grounded in the official NHLA grading rules that define the industry. Since 1948 75+ years of training 1,000s of alumni worldwide Memphis, TN NHLA & NHA Headquarters EN + ES English & Spanish classes Learn more about the NHA Career Opportunities Where Can a Career in Hardwood Take You? The hardwood industry offers stable, skilled-trade careers with strong earning potential. NHA training is your entry point across the entire supply chain. Lumber Inspector Apply NHLA grading rules to assess lumber quality and value. Kiln Operator Manage the drying process to optimize lumber quality. Production Manager Oversee operations, yield analysis, and quality control. Quality Control Reduce waste and maximize profitability in production. Sales Representative Leverage grading expertise to build relationships & drive sales. Hardwood Buyer Evaluate and procure lumber for downstream manufacturing. Explore all career paths Find the Program that Fits NHA offers several program types to fit your schedule, experience, and goals. Like Inspector Training School The Flagship Program of the National Hardwood Academy 75+ Years of Excellence : The Inspector Training School, now part of the National Hardwood Academy, has been the leader in hardwood grading education. Hands-On Learning : Students gain real-world skills in species identification, measurement techniques, rule interpretation, and inspection protocols. Career Ready : Ideal for aspiring lumber inspectors, quality control professionals, procurement specialists, or anyone looking to build a strong foundation in the hardwood industry. Like How to Enroll Ready to enroll? Here's how it works. Gather Your Documents Gather your identification, transcripts, and other required documentation. Select a Cohort Check out our Class Calendar and find the start date that works best for you. Submit an Application After gathering documentation & selecting your cohort, you’re ready to apply! View Admissions Information About the NHA Career Opportunities Choose a Program How to Enroll Menu Close Jump to Section Not sure where to start? We're here to help. Our team is happy to answer questions, help identify the right program, or walk you through the admissions process. Contact Our Staff

Review the terms and conditions for using the National Hardwood Lumber Association's website, products, and services. Learn about your rights, responsibilities, and site usage policies. Terms of Use Welcome to NHLA.com! By accessing or using our website, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following Terms of Use. These terms govern your use of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) website, and by using the site, you accept and agree to these terms.
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 By accessing or using NHLA.com (the "Site"), you agree to these Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you should immediately stop using the Site.
 2. Use of the Site 
 NHLA grants you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to access and use the Site solely for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms of Use. You agree not to use the Site for any illegal or unauthorized purposes.
 3. User Account
 To access certain features or services of the Site, you may be required to create an account. You agree to provide accurate, complete, and current information when creating your account and to keep your account details updated. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activities that occur under your account.
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 You may not: Use the Site in a manner that could damage, disable, overburden, or impair the functioning of the Site or interfere with any other party’s use of the Site. Use any robot, spider, scraper, or other automated means to access or gather data from the Site without NHLA's consent. Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any portion of the Site or to any systems or networks connected to the Site. 5. Intellectual Property
 All content on the Site, including but not limited to text, images, graphics, logos, trademarks, and software, is the property of NHLA or its content providers and is protected by intellectual property laws. You may not copy, reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works from any part of the Site without prior written permission from NHLA.
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 The Site may contain links to third-party websites. NHLA does not control these websites and is not responsible for their content or privacy practices. Links to third-party sites are provided for convenience only, and your use of such sites is at your own risk.
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 NHLA is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages that result from your use of or inability to use the Site. This includes any damages resulting from errors, interruptions, or inaccuracies in the content, or from third-party websites linked to or accessed through the Site.
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 You agree to indemnify and hold NHLA harmless from any claims, losses, liabilities, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from your use of the Site or violation of these Terms of Use.
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 NHLA reserves the right to suspend or terminate your access to the Site at any time, without notice, for any reason, including but not limited to any violation of these Terms of Use.
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 These Terms of Use are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of Tennessee, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising from these terms will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Tennessee.
 11. Changes to Terms of Use
 NHLA reserves the right to update or modify these Terms of Use at any time. Changes will be posted on this page, and your continued use of the Site after such modifications constitutes your acceptance of the updated Terms of Use.
 12. Contact Information 
 If you have any questions or concerns about these Terms of Use, please contact us at: info@nhla.com .

Discover NHLA’s role in supporting the Real American Hardwood Coalition—promoting the sustainability, beauty, and performance of American hardwood products. Real American Hardwood Celebrating the beauty. Sharing the story. Growing the demand. The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) is proud to be a founding partner of the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC)—a nationwide effort to inspire architects, designers, builders, and consumers to choose genuine American hardwood for their homes, projects, and products. A United Industry Voice for North American Hardwoods The Real American Hardwood Coalition is a collaborative, industry-wide initiative that aims to increase awareness and drive demand for real hardwood products, including flooring, cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and more. Through consumer education, digital marketing, and storytelling, the coalition highlights the unmatched beauty, sustainability, and authenticity of American hardwoods. As a founding member, NHLA is deeply invested in the mission and momentum of the RAHC—supporting content development, industry engagement, and the promotion of hardwood as the natural choice in a competitive market. Learn More and Get Involved Want to see the movement in action? Visit the official Real American Hardwood website to explore engaging videos, educational resources, and content you can share to help spread the word. Together, we can ensure the next generation understands the value of choosing real. RealAmericanHardwood.com Built for Consumers RealAmericanHardwood.pro Built for Professionals

Discover what life is like as a student at the National Hardwood Academy. Explore our Memphis campus, class camaraderie, and life outside the classroom. Student Life Make lifelong memories in Memphis. Located at NHLA’s Memphis headquarters, the National Hardwood Academy offers the only full-scale hardwood lumber grading school in the country. The facility features a dedicated classroom and a warehouse stocked with real boards for hands-on training. Students learn in a professional, industry-standard environment alongside expert instructors and peers. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, this is where the hardwood industry trains its future leaders. Campus Life Your Home Away From Home The NHA campus offers state-of-the-art classroom and warehouse facilities designed for hands-on hardwood industry training. Our immersive learning environment helps students gain the skills needed for successful careers in lumber grading, inspection, and more. Class Camaraderie Learn Together, Grow Together At NHA, students join class cohorts that begin 3–4 times per year, fostering teamwork and camaraderie. Through collaborative hands-on training, students build strong bonds that support personal growth and professional success. Many alumni carry these relationships beyond graduation, forming lifelong friendships and valuable industry networks. For many, NHA is more than education — it’s a transformative experience. Meet the Alumni Life in Memphis Beale Street and Beyond Known as the "Hardwood Capital of the World," Memphis' strategic location along the Mississippi River and major rail lines made it a timber trade hub. Today, it's home to the National Hardwood Academy and a city rich in craftsmanship and culture. Peaceful Campus : Safe, quiet surroundings for focused learning. Southern Hospitality : Legendary barbecue, live music, outdoor parks, and history. Welcoming Atmosphere : Memphis offers a perfect blend of opportunity and charm. Come for the training, stay for the experience. Ready to Start Your Journey? Join the National Hardwood Academy and gain more than a world-class hardwood education. Develop new skills, create lifelong friendships, and make unforgettable memories — all in the heart of Memphis. Apply Now

Learn about the National Hardwood Lumber Association—our mission, our legacy, and our commitment to serving the hardwood industry since 1898. About the National Hardwood Lumber Association The trusted voice and standards leader of the hardwood lumber industry since 1898. Founded in 1898 by 37 dedicated lumbermen in Chicago, NHLA was created to establish uniform standards for grading and trading hardwood lumber. Today, NHLA remains the foremost authority representing the entire hardwood supply chain—from production through distribution—serving both members and the broader hardwood consumer base with integrity and expertise. NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 NHLA was founded in 1898. William A. Bennett led the way as the NHLA's first President. 1898 The NHLA Grading Rules take root & establish industry standards, stabilizing the North American hardwood trade worldwide. 1920 Our first NHLA Inspector Training School Class took place in Chicago before the School moved to Memphis. 1948 The NHLA Inspector Training School moved to Memphis, TN and is immediately in demand. These students were some of the first to do their board runs at the new ITS building on Tutwiler. 1950 L.C. Nicely consults with a member sawmill owner. 1952 Members attend the 65th Annual NHLA Convention in Chicago. 1962 NHLA Board Members meet at the original Chicago headquarters to discuss the grading rules, industry conditions, and more. 1964 Then California Governor, Ronald Regan is presented a gift by NHLA President L. D. Kellogg at the 71st NHLA Convention. 1968 Board Members break ground at the new NHLA office site in Memphis, TN. 1979 Construction continues on the new NHLA offices in Memphis. 1980 ITS students & NHLA staff raised the flags at the new NHLA offices in Memphis, TN for the first time. 1980 Students from the first ITS class in Memphis blow off some steam outside of the classroom. 1985 NHLA installs it's first dry kiln at the Inspector Training School. 1990 The ITS classroom is upgraded with a Smartboard, donated by ITSEF. 2019 Students participate in the first all Spanish 2 week short course at ITS. 2023 The Inspector Training School is reborn as the National Hardwood Academy. 2025 Our History Our Mission NHLA is a membership-based international trade association advocating for the North American hardwood industry, representing timber producers, sawmills, lumber graders, wood products manufacturers, and other key professionals. While regional and state associations are valuable partners, NHLA stands as the unified voice that shapes industry standards and influences public policy. 
Our mission is to support businesses in the hardwood market by maintaining ethical standards and providing services that promote growth, success, and sustainability. We advocate for hardwoods as the sustainable, versatile choice for various industries and work to ensure our members' long-term success. Through exclusive networking opportunities and policy advocacy, NHLA keeps members well-equipped to thrive in a competitive market, driving both industry innovation and sustainability. Read the NHLA Bylaws The Team Behind NHLA NHLA’s strength comes from a dedicated team of professionals, educators, advocates, and leaders. From inspectors in the field to staff at headquarters, our team works tirelessly to advance the hardwood industry and support our members every day. Meet the NHLA Staff